Italy

An ancient farmhouse transformed into a peaceful place to stay with lovely gardens, a swimming pool and delicious organic food

Citrus scents the air, loungers flank a spakling pool. Light, cool, simple rooms, vibrant hosts, garden and olive groves - divine food

Visit Florence, Arezzo, Siena… or revel in the beauty and peace of Casa Zia, surrounded by wilderness and lovely birdsong

Funky candle lanterns for bedrooms, balcony and terrace at this eco-serene bolthole in Modica's historic heart. Beaches are 20 minutes away

Fringing Tuscany countryside and fun Montone, an authentic Umbrian mansion with Slow Food, lavender fields, apartments and pool. Pure Italy

Cosy B&B suites in the hilltop village of Trebiano Magra with an ancient Roman water cistern turned into a spa

A wisteria-laden pergola shades the sunny side of the farmhouse - in gentle olive country near the Sibillini Park, not far from the Adriatic

Float in the infinity pool above the canyon, dine under the stars, revel in the silence, head to the Cavagrande di Cassibile Nature Reserve

A relaxed country feel in this fine family villa. It has space and comfort for six with gardens, private pool, and tennis court

Drink a toast to your good fortune as you gaze across to Elba from a vast free-standing bath. You breakfast on the view-filled terrace

1800s coastal watchtower meets organic farm at a small hotel with a proud restaurateur and sea views from high mezzanine rooms

A very romantic and peaceful Umbrian hideaway just for two with delicious breakfasts and wonderful views from house and pool

Blissful views to vineyards and mountains from this faithful reproduction of a 16th-century manor. Eat well, hike, bike, sauna and swim

Laze under the loggia, drink in superb, sweeping Umbrian views and wine from the vines beyond the pool; sleep peacefully in grand style

A 15th-century courtyard hides a petite, chic apartment where contemporary mixes with noble age to stunning effect. Live like the locals

An elegant house cleverly renovated and with added creature comforts: infinity pool, hot tub, smart kitchen, big gardens, gorgeous bedrooms

Play boules in the garden, swim in the natural pool and enjoy Monica’s wonderful cooking served with local wines at this village farmhouse

A sleek modern building on one floor with huge sliding doors to a private pool and beautifully landscaped gardens, ideal for peace-seekers